James M. Marino

Feb 13, 1951 - Oct 16, 2009 (Age 58)

Jim joined our chapter in 2004 and remained a member until his passing in 2009.

Obituary

Scottsdale, AZ -- James M. Marino, age 58, passed away Friday, October 16, 2009, at his residence in Scottsdale, AZ. Jim was born in Los Angeles, CA, on February 13, 1951, son of the late James and Ann (Nee: Comande) Marino and had been a lifelong resident of Racine.

Jim graduated from William Horlick High School “Class of 1969” and then joined the United States Marine Corps, receiving an honorable discharge in 1971 due to a preexisting injury. Jim was honored to serve his community as a Racine Police Officer from 1975-1990. He received the Award of Excellence in police duty in 1981, 1987 and 1993. He also received the Meritorious Service Award in 1979. Jim always continued to think of himself as a cop. He retired from the police force to become a small business owner of Vintage Rock Café, having several business partners over the years.

Jim was an avid Harley Davidson rider seeing most of the country on his motorcycle. He was proud that he took seven rides with the former Governor, Tommy Thompson. Jim loved oldies, rock 'n roll and country music and had an ability to captivate an audience with his story telling. He never met a casino or slot machine he didn’t like. James Marino was a good man with a huge heart, generous pockets, an infectious smile and a presence that was undeniable. He will be dearly missed.

He leaves behind his son, Anthony J. Marino; his angel, Janice Kopulos; aunts and uncles, Nick (Isabelle) Comande, Dominic LoPiccalo, Lee Comande; godsons, Dan Dahlke and Joel Thomas. He is further survived by Vinny Rottino, who he thought of as a son; cousins, other relatives and many dear friends. In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, David E. Marino.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, October 24, 2009, at St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., at 10:30 a.m. with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the family on Friday at the funeral home from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. and Saturday at the church from 9:30 a.m. until time of Mass. Private interment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Memorials to the family as a scholarship fund in Jim’s name will be established.